While we liked to see what the “big guys” had in mind for 2011, there was lots to see off the main show floor too. Here are a few of the unique and interesting products that caught our eye.
BugBand – These cool little wristbands are infused with oils from geraniums and totally deet-free. The portable wipes they handed out smelled good and have held off our Maine skeeters pretty well since we’ve been back home.
Volt Boats – This was a pretty cool looking rig. An electric assisted kayak for getting where you want to go, a little faster I guess. The clear plastic “hood” over the engine was a nice touch, but probably will not be part of the production models. At $2,700 it’s pricey, but for those who want to be the first on their block (and money is no object) it’ll certainly turn some heads around the lake.
Portec Outdoor – These guys had a bunch of stuff in their booth, but what caught our eye was their line of solar backpacks. What a bright idea! Now you can charge up your GPS while trekking (at least above the tree line). It will be interesting to see if this type of thing catches on with mainstream, urban bipeds.
Bamboo Bottle – Catchy name and an interesting and unusual product combination – a “wood” bottle? The outer shell is a natural (and sustainably grown) insulator with a removable, sealable glass vessel inside. These guys had a great booth and were very active in the whole social marketing thing during the show. We were surprised to find out that the company was actually based out of New Hampshire – a state better known for granite and pine, not bamboo. I know I’ll have one of these on my Christmas list this year !
Rock On – We talked with Rob for a bit and loved his super soft recycled poly & hemp tees and well built soft shell jacket. Most of all, we liked the name…and the fact that these guys are true-blue New Englander’s – yessah !
Joules – What a surprise to see a brand that my daughter has a ton of hanging in her closet – for horseback riding! The folks at Frantisi, distributors of the brand in North America, thought that the outdoor market would also be a good fit for the brand – and we do too with it’s colorful collection of polos, jackets, wellies, bags and more.
Lucky Bums – How could you not stop and take a look at all the cool kid’s gear? From flashlights, binoculars and moon chairs, to heirloom sleds, snowboards and skis, any kid would be a lucky bum to have gear like this!
KALYX – So long uniboob! Kimberly Cayce, founder and designer has thought of everything that could possible go into a sports bra – fit, style, function and eco-friendly fabrics.
Conquest Kayaks - Now where were these clear-bottom, inflatable, easy to check boats when we were traveling to French Polynesia?!
